Metal fabrication is a great industry to get into because there are many different facets, and they all affect multiple industries. From construction to automotive, metal fabrication has no shortage of industry uses. However, to ensure your finished products display the quality your clients are looking for, understanding the common fabrication mistakes is essential. Check out the list below to discover three common metal fabrication mistakes to avoid.
Poor Equipment Storage
Every type of metal fabrication equipment requires secure storage, from filler metals to PPE. Unfortunately, poor equipment storage is a common and avoidable slip-up. Every piece of equipment should have a designated spot where it will be safe from hazards that will cause wear, corrosion, and other forms of damage.
For example, rod ovens are perfect for storing electrodes away from moisture and keeping the material at a stable temperature until it’s time to work. Of course, your equipment won’t last until the end of time, but your gear will last for a long time if you take care of it.
Improper Time Management
One of the most common metal fabrication mistakes to avoid is time mismanagement. If you don’t properly schedule a fabrication project, you may find yourself needing to rush certain steps. Suffice it to say that rushing and metal fabrication don’t mix.
Certain fabrication processes are quicker than others but precision is always crucial in this line of work. Moving too quickly can lead to injuries as well as structural and cosmetic damage to the metal. To put it simply, always be realistic with your time management and prioritize safety and the quality of the finished product.
Misunderstanding Workplace and Industry Needs
As mentioned above, there are multiple metal fabrication methods, each of which is beneficial to various industries. As a result, every project must abide by specific workplace needs, along with any relevant standards and regulations. For instance, any fabricator should know the aluminum extrusion industry’s standards for tolerance if they’ll be working with such materials. Beyond standards and regulations relevant to various metal fabrication processes, you must consider the specific application.
Certain metals are better suited for some environmental conditions than others; whether a fabricator takes this into account will make or break their finished product. To avoid missteps or misunderstandings, have long, concise discussions with clients to ensure you understand what they need and want for their specific application.
